Where Can I See My New Rates?
Whenever your rates change after moving in, you'll be notified via email or letter detailing the new rates and their effective date. You can also find your new rates on the first bill issued after the change takes effect.
When Will I Find Out If My Rates Are Changing?
If there are changes to your fees and charges, you will be informed at least five business days before the new rates take effect. Notifications will be sent via email or letter. Fees and charges (e.g., connection and disconnection fees) typically change once a year, often around the start of the financial year. View these current charges depending on your distributor here.
When Do Rate Changes Usually Occur?
Victoria: Rate changes typically occur in July, aligning with the release of the Victorian Default Offer (VDO). The Essential Services Commission (ESC) reviews and updates the VDO— the maximum price a customer can be charged—annually, with the new VDO taking effect on July 1.
Queensland, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, and South Australia: Rate changes generally occur in July, in line with the release of the Default Market Offer (DMO). The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) reviews and updates the DMO— the maximum price a customer can be charged—annually, with the new DMO taking effect on July 1.
Why Do Energy Rates Change?
Electricity prices fluctuate due to various factors, including:
Costs of building, maintaining, and operating power plants and the electricity grid.
Changes in wholesale fuel costs and network maintenance expenses. Rates are regulated to protect consumers. In most states, a "default offer" set by either the AER or ESC establishes the minimum rates that must be adhered to.
What If My Invoice Covers a Period Before and After a Rate Change?
If your billing period spans a rate change, charges will be calculated as follows:
Before the Rate Change: All usage and charges will be billed at the old rates.
After the Rate Change: All usage and charges will be billed at the new rates.